Covington Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Faulkner Lake Dam Mirror Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Covington Lake Dam, also known as Southwood Lake, is a private dam located in Lauderdale, Mississippi.
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Summary
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of recreation. With an undetermined hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition is currently not rated, signaling the need for further assessment and potential risk management measures.
While the dam's last inspection date and condition assessment remain unknown, it is clear that Covington Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and recreational activities in the area. With a spillway type of 'Uncontrolled' and no associated locks, the dam poses moderate risk that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to stay informed about the status of Covington Lake Dam and advocate for proper maintenance and risk mitigation strategies to protect the surrounding environment and communities.
In the face of increasing climate change impacts and growing water resource challenges, Covington Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam management practices and proactive risk assessment measures. By working together with regulatory agencies and local stakeholders, we can ensure the safety and resilience of vital water infrastructure like Covington Lake Dam, while also promoting responsible water resource stewardship and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Dam Height |
20 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sowashee Creek At Meridian
|
16cfs |
Okatibbee Creek At Arundel
|
89cfs |
Chunky River Nr Chunky
|
301cfs |
Chickasawhay River At Enterprise
|
546cfs |
Sucarnoochee River At Livingston Al
|
272cfs |
Tallahala Creek At Waldrup
|
164cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Tom Bailey
|
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Dunn's Falls Water Park
|
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|
Dunns Falls Water Park
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Covington Lake Dam